Cropland type shapes arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) population density and species diversity in Northwest Ethiopia

AMF play critical function in soil fertility and plant nutrition, especially in absorption and translocation of immobile nutrients. Farm and soil fertility management activities enhance crop yield; however, they either positively or negatively impact the AMF population and diversity. This study was aimed at assessing effects of farm and soil fertility management activities on AMF population density, species diversity and richness in North West Ethiopia. Soil samples were obtained from teff (Eragrostis tef) and maize (Zea mays) croplands. AMF spores were extracted, quantified, and identified. Average AMF spore population was varied significantly (p < 0.05) across districts, among specific sampling locations, and between crop types. Controls exhibited a higher average AMF population density (63.33 spores per 100 g dry soil) as compared to the average AMF population density of croplands (47.59 spores per 100 g dry soil). Maize croplands exhibited the highest average spore densities, up to 112.67 spores per 100 g dry soil and harboring a higher average AMF population density (66 spores per 100 g dry soil) as compared to the teff croplands (30 spores per 100 g dry soil). A total of 14 AMF morphotypes belonging into three genera were identified. Acaulospora and Pacispora were found dominant, while Acaulospora myricarpa and Pacispora franciscana were dominant species. Farm and soil fertility management practices decreased AMF population density and species diversity. Maintaining AMF population density and species diversity is needed to enhance soil health and crop productivity in the era of climate change to promote sustainable agriculture.